ITV stars Laura Woods and Seema Jaswal reveal Euros fear for Lionesses

England’s Lionesses kick off a 'roarsome' defence of their UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 championship win this week, with Laura Woods
and Seema Jaswal hosting their first match for ITV. Sarina Wiegman ’s side has drawn group D and take on France in their first fixture at Stadion Letzigrund, Zurich, Switzerland on Saturday 5th July. Captained by Leah Williamson, the 23-strong squad includes Lucy Bronze, Jess Park, Lauren James, Beth Mead, Alessia Russo, Chloe Kelly and Georgia Stanway.

However, Laura fears the team could struggle after the retirement of two team stalwarts and the withdrawal of a third player, saying, “I’m slightly worried with Millie Bright, Fran Kirby and Mary Earps all dropping out.” Seema is more optimistic, and reckons the new blood in the team will plug any gaps. She says, “There is a real opportunity for some of the new players in the squad, like Grace Clinton, Jess Park and Michelle Agyemang, to make their mark and shine as the world watches them in Switzerland this summer.”

Laura Woods

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What are you most looking forward to about the Women’s UEFA Euro 2025 Laura?

It’s very competitive this year and I’m looking forward to England defending their crown. Hopefully they can
go all of the way.

Who do you think is going to win the tournament and why?

It will be between England, Germany and Spain. When Spain gets into tournament football they can be a real juggernaut, so my money is on Spain. They have two Ballon d’Or winners and the WSL Player of the Season, so unfortunately for England it might be Spain.

How do you think England and Wales will do?

If we finish top of the group I think we have a strong chance of going all the way. Without Millie Bright in the team you lose such a huge leader but you have Leah Williamson in there, Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp who is coming back into form. Wales have got it tough, and if they get out of the group, that would be a great achievement for them.

Who do you think will be the standout stars?

Spain has got three or four standout stars, but Aitana Bonmatí is at the top for me. Lauren James is also a brilliant player and one of my favourites. I think she could have a really good tournament.

Seema Jaswal

What are you most looking forward to about the Women’s Euro 2025 Seema?

The incredible atmosphere and that feeling of unity when thousands of voices rise together in celebration of the game we love. It’s about pride, progress and passion. Watching these phenomenal women own the pitch, inspire the next generation and show the world what they’re made of – that’s everything. It’s history in the making.

Who do you think will win?

It’s hard to look past Spain and England. Spain are such a threat. With players like Bonmati and Paralluelo in the mix, they have a real blend of experience and emerging talent. As for our Lionesses, they’re the defending champions, they have experience of reaching the latter stages of tournaments and they’ve learnt to win in different ways.

How do you think England will do?

I think they will do really well. Sarina Wiegman is the first coach to win the Euros with two different teams and is hoping to win three European Championships in a row. She will have her players prepared and ready for what’s to come. England has been drawn in a tough group, facing the Netherlands, France and Wales, so it’s going to be a real challenge, but they’ve experienced the highs and lows of tournament football and nothing can phase them.

Who are your standouts?

Spain’s Bonmati, Claudia Pina and Paralluelo will have a huge impact. Lauren James is England’s X Factor and I am thrilled that she is fit for the Euros, after being sidelined through injury. She is a game changer and I look forward to watching her. Stina Blackstenius will arrive full of confidence, and is always one to watch for Sweden.

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